Advanced cherenkov-based imaging systems, tools, and methods of feedback control, temporal control sequence image capture, and quantification in high resolution dose images

Abstract

The present invention relates to advanced Cherenkov-based imaging systems, tools, and methods of feedback control, temporal control sequence image capture, and quantification in high resolution dose images. In particular, the present invention provides a system and method for simple, accurate, quick, robust, real-time, water-equivalent characterization of beams from LINACs and other systems producing external-therapy radiation for purposes including optimization, commissioning, routine quality auditing, R&D, and manufacture. The present invention also provides a system and method for rapid and economic characterization of complex radiation treatment plans prior to patient exposure. Further, the present invention also provides a system and method of economically detecting Cherenkov radiation emitted by tissue and other media in real-world clinical settings (e.g., settings illuminated by visible light).

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A direct feedback interface (DFI) control unit comprising a machine-readable medium having instructions stored thereon for execution by a processor to perform a method comprising the steps of:
 detection of Cherenkov radiation after exposure of a subject to high-energy radiation from a radiation beam source; 
 creation of an image; 
 comparative analysis of the image to a reference image; 
 direct communication of the results of the comparative analysis to a radiation beam source unit or a beam shaping unit, wherein such communication is direct feedback capable of instructing real-time modification of the beam profile. 
 
     
     
       2. The DFI control unit of  claim 1 , wherein the modification of the beam profile is modification of beam shaping. 
     
     
       3. An advanced Cherenkov-based imaging system comprising:
 a radiation beam source; 
 at least one camera capable of imaging Cherenkov radiation; 
 one or more processing units that enables the control of the radiation beam source; and 
 a direct feedback interface (DFI) control unit of  claim 1 , 
 wherein the Cherenkov radiation is detected by the camera after exposure of a subject to high-energy radiation from the radiation beam source. 
 
     
     
       4. The system of  claim 3 , wherein the radiation beam source is a particle accelerator or other device for providing high-energy radiation. 
     
     
       5. The system of  claim 3 , wherein the radiation beam source may be cross-sectionally shaped by a beam-shaping apparatus. 
     
     
       6. The system of  claim 5 , wherein the beam-shaping apparatus is a multi-leaf collimator.